If you’ve ever sat down to study only to get distracted after five minutes, you’re not alone. However, many students find that the right playlist can turn a boring study session into something actually productive. 

Modern pop, classical piano, or acoustic music have become some go-to options for students who need to focus on a task. According to Spotify, streams of study playlists increased by 61% in 2025. This doesn’t even include students’ personal playlists they use for focus music or any music on other platforms. These statistics reveal the significant number of students who rely on music to stay productive throughout the school year. Small YouTubers who create background or focus music have gained millions of followers in recent years, demonstrating that music can significantly enhance concentration.

Not everyone listens to the same thing, though. A survey by The American Psychological Association found that 62% of students say music helps them concentrate, while 18% claim it distracts them. So, it’s definitely a personal preference. Some students prefer ambient music or acoustics, while others would much rather listen to their favorite artists.

There’s also real science behind it. Studies show that steady, low-volume music can reduce stress and improve memory retention. In fact, research from Stanford University found that instrumental music can help the brain retain information more effectively compared to complete silence.

Of course, playlists aren’t just a magical cure to a 4.0 GPA. If you listen to songs at a high volume or with distracting lyrics, it may hurt your focus more than help. The key to success is to find what works for you. Whether that may be instrumental, nature sounds like white noise and waterfalls, or just your daily playlist, finding what keeps you occupied can significantly improve your focus, therefore bringing up grades and test results.

So, next time you’re staring at a mountain of assignments, try shuffling through some different kinds of music. It may not do your homework for you, but it can make things go a little bit smoother and easier, and even just a bit more enjoyable. Once you find what genres help you concentrate, studies show that you will see an improvement in your academics.